It doesn’t matter why you are looking for a new job; returning to work, redundancy, relocation, career progression or career change, sometimes your motivation can dip. Looking for a new role can be frustrating; the searching, the applications, the waiting, the interviews and the rejections: it is no surprise if you have your moments of despair and F-it moments. So, today, we are going to have an honest conversation about how to stay motivated during your job search.
There is a reason why Recruitment (with the capital R) exists as a sector; job hunting can be a full-time job for both the person and the employer. When I started working in the industry in 2000, whilst I was fascinated by the concept of career support and consultancy, I wasn’t really sure WHY organizations would pay someone else to do it for them. All it takes is a couple of interviews to find the right person.
Well, we all know how wrong I was about that!
Looking for a new job (like trying to find the ideal candidate) can feel like an uphill struggle.
You may be reading this as you are just fed up with the process.
You feel like you have sent hundreds of CVs with nothing but silence in return.
Maybe you have made it to interview, only to be told that you aren’t quite right.
You are now in a place of apathy; you know you need to apply but you are so disheartened by the rejections, you have just stopped.
The one thing that will guarantee you won’t get the job.
If you don’t apply!
So, if this is you, here are my tips to stay motivated during your job search.
- Take a break
Stepping away from something for a set period of time, even if it’s just for a day or two, can really help when you are emotionally spent. When you are job searching it can take over your life; fill your brain and sap your energy. So, before you do anything else, recharge your job searching batteries with something you enjoy!
2. Do something different
Honestly think about how you have been job searching up until now and do something different. If you only apply for roles that are advertised, then try approaching a company you want to work for speculatively or ask friends or family if they know of any opportunities. If you only wait for roles that are advertised as part-time (and you want that!) then ask an organisation if they would consider applications for part-time hours for their full-time job.
3. Stop playing safe
Ask yourself what is the worst that can happen if you apply to a role? So many people play it safe when they are applying, what would happen if you applied to your dream job? I bet you have more transferable and relevant skills than you think you do!
If you are worried about making the “wrong” decision, this blog may help.
4. Get inspired
Think of someone whose career you aspire to. Find out more about their progress – either by speaking with them directly or tracking down their career journey via LinkedIn, blogs or podcasts. What can you learn from them? I would put money on them experiencing similar challenges when creating a career to enjoy.
5. Outsource the process
There are ways to automate the process a little more for you. From job alerts via online job sites to recruiters. Maybe you don’t need to do it all yourself? Or, for those that are currently employed, could you do a career swerve right where you are? (check out my blog here)
6. Change your perspective
Nothing is more motivating than learning new things. Get some feedback on your CV and Interview techniques from someone qualified and knowledgeable and see where you can improve (hello!) Or, see if you are spending too much time making the same mistakes!
Make sure you know what you NEED, what you WANT and how to present that to the world. However, ultimately, you are looking for that ONE job, that opportunity that will work for your life and skills right now. Be kind to yourself, use the resources and the connections that you have around you, and take each day one step at a time. That’s how you stay motivated during your job search.
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Find other careers and return to work articles on the blog
Clara Wilcox is a straight-talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance. Isn’t it time you had a career to enjoy, not endure? Talk to me NOW about how I can help.
Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
